GOP Senators Pull Out of CIA Probe

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Top Republicans on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence said early Saturday they wouldn't take part into an investigation into the Bush administration's interrogation policies, arguing the probe of the intelligence agency is a counterproductive step "backwards" for CIA reform.

Top Republicans on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence said Friday they wouldn't take part into an investigation into the Bush administration's interrogation policies, arguing the probe of the intelligence agency is a counterproductive step "backwards" for CIA reform.

The probe, launched earlier this fall by Attorney General Eric Holder and the Obama administration, will review the legality and ethics of the policies used in the interrogations of key post-Sept. 11 terror suspects including mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed. Holder appointed a special prosecutor last month to probe allegations of detainee abuse, but continued to stress that criminal charges wouldn't necessary be inevitable after the investigation.

"Had Mr. Holder honored the pledge made by the president to look forward, not backwards, we would still be active participants in the Committee's review," said panel member Sen. Christopher S. Bond (D-Miss.), according to the Washington Post. "What current or former CIA employee would be willing to gamble his freedom by answering the Committee's questions? Indeed, forcing these terror fighters to make this choice is neither fair or just."

Committee chairman Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) said the loss of Republican supporters was regretful but that the investigation would proceed.